Men's Soccer Picked As WCC Runner-Up; Hurtado Named To All-WCC Pre-season Team

The Santa Clara men's soccer team has been selected as the runner-up in the West Coast Conference coaches preseason released on Tuesday. In addition, two-time All-WCC First Team forward Erik Hurtado, who led the WCC in points last season, has been tabbed to the All-WCC preseason team. The Broncos open up their 2012 schedule with a home exhibition against Cal Poly Saturday, Aug. 18. The first of 10 official home games will be against Cal the night of Fri., Aug. 24 as part of the Bay Area Classic.

The Broncos have enjoyed 23 winning seasons over the past 25 years, which includes 11 WCC titles and 19 NCAA tournament appearances. SCU was ranked as high as No. 18 nationally last season and posted the league's best overall record (11-5-4).

"In the preseason we've begun making strides to become a very good team," said Bronco head coach Cameron Rast. "We have a lot of returners who will be instrumental in providing leadership and experience in big games. The new players we believe, as the season progresses, will factor in greatly to our success."

Rast feels like the vote, made prior to the season starting, is representative of what the teams look like on paper right now. "Saint Mary's, LMU and Santa Clara turned over large senior classes and our ability to integrate our newcomers into our respective programs will determine our chances of winning the West Coast Conference," added Rast. "In addition, San Diego has a very good group returning and the team to chase for the league title this year. Portland and USF, even Gonzaga, are also going to be tough. The WCC will be up for grabs this year."

"With us having Erik Hurtado back for his senior season, it gives us one of the most exciting players in the conference and improves our chances of success," said Rast.

Season tickets for all 10 home games start at $50 for adults and $35 for youth and seniors. The SCU athletic department is also offering a season ticket 'Family Plan,' which includes five tickets to every home game for just $100.

Fans can purchase tickets online, over the phone at 408-554-4660 or by visiting the SCU Ticket Office, located at The Leavey Center, 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara campus, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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